Academics

Graduate Study

The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering in the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science at Northwestern University has two primary goals: to train students to be leaders in research and development in industry or government, and to be faculty members at colleges and universities.

We strive to develop innovative strategies and techniques in the fields of chemical and biological engineering. Relative to many peer institutions, Northwestern places a great deal of emphasis on interdisciplinary and cross-school research interactions. Of the research-active faculty in our department, more than half have formal associations with other departments through full, joint, or courtesy appointments, and half of these advise graduate students from other departments.

Degrees

We offer the following graduate degrees through Northwestern University’s Graduate School:

Master of Science (MS) in Chemical Engineering

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Chemical Engineering

Interdisciplinary Programs & Research Groups

The majority of graduate students in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering participate in interdisciplinary programs and research groups, including:

• The Molecular Biophysics Training Program
• The Biotechnology Training Program
• The Integrated Biological Sciences Program
• The Center for Catalysis and Surface Science
• The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute
• The International Institute for Nanotechnology
• The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center
• The Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
• The Multidisciplinary Training Program in Child and Adolescent Health (NUCATS)

Programs for PhD Students

PhD students have the option of completing one of two training programs: The biotechnology training program, or the chemistry of life processes training program.

Learn more about both programs

Affiliated Graduate Program

Master of Biotechnology

The Master of Biotechnology Program in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering prepares scientists and engineers for fulfilling and dynamic careers in biotechnology and associated professions by offering integrated coursework, extensive laboratory research, and training in current industry practices.

Minor in Synthetic Biology

The Synthetic Biology Minor for Master's Students aims to understand and harness the rules of life across multiple scales toward engineering goals.

Learn more about the minor in synthetic biology